Design of Temporary Access Bridge

Temporary access bridges play a critical role in large infrastructure projects, particularly in difficult terrain and water-crossing conditions. This dissertation presents a detailed study on the design, analysis, and construction methodology of a temporary access bridge over the Vaitarna River, Maharashtra, which forms part of the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail corridor works. The study covers structural design considerations, load analysis, foundation system selection, stability checks, and construction sequencing of steel trestle-type temporary bridges. It focuses on the behaviour of steel modular trestle systems, pile-supported foundations, and deck systems subjected to construction loads including cranes, vehicles, and dynamic environmental forces such as wind and river flow. Design is carried out using relevant provisions of IRC, IS codes, and FHWA temporary works guidelines. The work also evaluates safety considerations, failure mechanisms, and cost-effectiveness of temporary access bridges compared with conventional access methods.